Job Description

Learning Support Assistant (1:1 Support - Year 8 young learner)

Salary: 22,000 - 26,000 Per- annum (5 days a week - pro-rata if less than 5 days a week)

Hours: Term time (35 weeks p/a): 8:00 - 16:00

Start date: January 2026

About us

Atelier 21 is a pioneering independent school catering to Young Learners aged 4-16 years, renowned for its innovative approach to education. As both a mainstream school and a research centre, we are dedicated to transforming education on a global scale, offering professional development to educators worldwide. Our goal is to optimise the school experience, making it relevant, meaningful, and joyful for all young learners. Our founder's mission is to 'change a million children's lives to start'.

Born from a deep connection with the Reggio Emilia approach, we view young learners as inherently competent and capable of building and expressing knowledge and skills for themselves. This philosophy is central to our educational ethos.

We offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) from the age of 11, in place of traditional GCSEs. The IB MYP is internationally recognised and ensures that our pupils develop the skills, knowledge, and dispositions they need to thrive in the future, rather than simply preparing them for the past.

Atelier 21 also includes The Haven, our trauma-informed, therapeutic provision designed to support children experiencing barriers to school attendance and emotional regulation. The Haven offers a nurturing, relational environment rooted in flexibility, deep trust, and the belief that every child can thrive when met with compassion and curiosity.

About this role

We are seeking a compassionate, experienced, and proactive Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to provide dedicated one-to-one support for a Year 8 young learner with autism and a PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) profile. This role is integral to helping the young learner access learning, manage daily routines, and thrive both academically and socially within a nurturing and creative learning environment.

Key Responsibilities

Provide in-class support across all subjects to facilitate the young learner's engagement and learning. Use non-contact lesson times to assist the young learner with completing homework and unfinished classwork. Communicate daily with parents to share updates, celebrate successes, and discuss any concerns. Collaborate closely with the Occupational Therapist to implement and support the young learner's OT programme. Support the young learner during off-site visits and PE lessons at K2, ensuring safety, engagement, and inclusion. Help the young learner manage and balance special interests in a way that supports learning and social development. Assist the young learner in navigating social situations and building positive peer relationships. Provide consistent support with organisation, time management, and executive functioning throughout the school day. Use IT confidently to support learning, communication, and task management. Attend all required INSET days and participate in relevant training and development opportunities.

Person Specification

Essential:

Proven experience working with autistic children, particularly those with a PDA profile. Strong understanding of autism, sensory needs, and demand avoidance strategies. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a warm and empathetic approach. Confident in using IT to support learning and communication. Ability to work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and families. Flexible, patient, and creative in adapting to the student's needs and interests. Physically able and willing to support during PE and off-site activities.
This role is only open to individuals who currently have the legal right to live and work in the United Kingdom. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship.

Desirable:

Experience working in progressive or alternative educational settings. Knowledge of executive functioning strategies and tools. Familiarity with Atelier 21's educational philosophy and values.
Why Join Us?

Be part of a dynamic, forward-thinking school that is leading the way in educational innovation and excellence. Thrive in a collaborative and supportive team where your contributions are valued, and growth is encouraged. Benefit from continuous professional development opportunities, designed to support your career progression and personal growth.

Application Process

If you are passionate about education, and making a meaningful difference, we would be delighted to hear from you. To apply, please email hr@atelier21schools.co.uk to receive an application form.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Atelier 21 Future School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undertake an enhanced DBS check and provide references that demonstrate suitability to work with children.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: 22,000.00-26,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Free parking Health & wellbeing programme Sick pay
Work Location: In person